Testimonials

“Ms. Marina is a gifted and rare gem of a teacher. She taught my daughter courage, self respect, and a genuine love for learning. Her adoration for Montessori is evident in everything she does. It is contagious. We are forever changed and grateful.”

- ​Kami Suarez

“It is my honor and privilege to provide the highest recommendation for Marina Portillo as an educator of young children. I first met Marina as a graduate student enrolled in the Belmont University Early Childhood MACTE Accredited and AMS Affiliated Montessori Teacher Education Program. During this time I was an Associate Professor and Director of the Montessori Program.

Beyond all of these outstanding credentials, Marina is a fine human being. She listens with care and attention to every child or adult who stands before her. She genuinely wills the good of all and this is demonstrated by her numerous acts of generosity and outreach. Her worldview is broad and inclusive, shaped by travel, study, and association with a diverse group of people. I would want Marina for the teacher of my grandchildren and would enroll him or her in any school under the guidance of Marina Portillo.”

-Merrie King, Ed.D, Director at Montessori Education Center of the Rockies

“Marina is an experienced and joyful Montessori teacher, and she is passionate about Dr. Maria Montessori's child-centered educational method and philosophy. Marina's love and respect for children is evident in all that she does - whether she is teaching letters and numbers, emotional awareness, or how to put on one’s shoes. She creates a classroom environment that is happy and peaceful, where children feel safe to explore and discover and where 'mistakes' are seen as a natural part of learning. As a fellow Montessori teacher and a parent, I am thrilled to enroll my son at Marina's school - Ithaca Montessori!”

- Valerie Platt, Montessori educator (AMS Early Childhood credential), M.Ed. Teacher Education